LNBA Calls For Setting Up Of A Specialized Drug Courts And Amendment Of Liberia’s Drugs Law
PHOTO: LNBA President, Cllr. Bornor Varmah
PRESS RELEASE
Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) hereby announces the release of its official list of three hundred and seventy-eight (378) lawyers in good standing for the year 2025, in accordance with Rule 5 of the Rules of Court. This list reflects those Lawyers who possess valid licenses and are duly authorized to practice law in Liberia for the current year.
The LNBA urges the public to exercise due diligence and ensure that they hire only lawyers who are on this list, as these individuals have fulfilled all legal requirements and are in good standing with the Association.
The LNBA strongly cautions the public against engaging the services of any lawyer who is not listed as licensed for the year 2025. Hiring a lawyer who does not hold a valid license could jeopardize your legal matters and potentially undermine your case before the court. Only Lawyers who are licensed and in good standing with the LNBA have met the necessary qualifications to provide competent and lawful representation.
In line with the LNBA’s commitment to upholding the integrity of the legal profession and ensuring justice for all, the LNBA continues to enforce strict adherence to its licensing procedures and encourage the public to consult the official list available at the LNBA’s offices and online platforms to confirm the standing of any Lawyer before making their legal representation choices.
For further inquiries or to verify the status of a specific lawyer, members of the public are encouraged to contact the LNBA at [231-0770790450] or visit our website at [www.lnba.org.lr].
The LNBA remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of legal practice and protecting the interests of the public and the justice system.
LNBA Calls For Setting Up Of A Specialized Drug Courts And Amendment Of Liberia’s Drugs Law
In a related development, the Liberian National Bar Association (LNBA) extends its commendation to the thousands of citizens, particularly the youth, women and other segments of the population who have today taken to the streets of Monrovia in a united stand against the rising tide of illicit drug use and trafficking across the country. This spontaneous and peaceful mass action is a clear cry for help and a strong call for national accountability.
The LNBA acknowledges the devastating impact that drug abuse is having on Liberia’s communities, families, institutions, and the future of the nation. The LNBA recognizes that the growing prevalence of narcotic substances; especially among young people is fueling crime, deepening poverty, weakening national security, and eroding the moral fabric of our society.
As the legal conscience of the nation, the LNBA calls on the Government of Liberia, particularly the National Legislature, the Judiciary, and law enforcement institutions, to treat this crisis as a national emergency and act with resolve, urgency, and sincerity.
To adopt a more pragmatic and holistic approach in addressing the menace, the bar makes the following key recommendations:
- Amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act of 2014
- Review and strengthen provisions to ensure tougher penalties for large-scale traffickers while focusing on rehabilitation for users.
- Establish Specialized Drug Courts
- Fast-track the adjudication of drug-related offenses and prioritize treatment-based approaches where appropriate.
- Strengthen the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency (LDEA)
- Increase operational capacity, funding, and independent oversight of the LDEA, while rooting out internal corruption.
- Launch a Nationwide Public Legal Education Campaign
- Mobilize communities through schools, churches, media, and grassroots platforms to raise awareness of the legal, social, and health consequences of drug abuse.
- Invest in Rehabilitation and Reintegration Programs
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- Government must commit resources to establish and manage drug rehabilitation centers, and support reintegration initiatives for recovering users.
- Establish a National Drug Accountability and Oversight Commission
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- A multi-sectoral, independent body should be formed to coordinate national responses, monitor interventions, and report regularly to the public.
The LNBA also commits to:
- Setting up a Drug Law Reform Committee to review current legal frameworks.
- Collaborating with partners, including civil society and international actors, to advocate for reforms.
- Providing pro bono legal support for vulnerable individuals wrongfully accused or in need of legal representation.
This is not a fight for the Government alone—it is a national fight. The LNBA stands ready to work with all stakeholders in protecting the future of Liberia from the scourge of drugs.